Claw toe is caused by nerve damage from diseases like diabetes or alcoholism, which can weaken muscles in the foot. The term stems from the toes' appearance—toes that look like claws digging down into the soles. Claw toe may lead to the formation of painful calluses. Claw toe worsens without treatment and may become a permanent deformity over time.

Common symptoms of claw toe include:

Toes bent upward from the joints at the ball of the foot.

Toes bent downward at the middle joints toward the sole of the foot.

Corns on the top of the toe or under the ball of the foot.

Claw toe deformities are easier to repair when detected early. Splints or tape is used to hold the toes in correct position.